Odori Park

A park located in Sapporo City, Hokkaido, has been selected as one of the "100 Best Roads in Japan," "100 Best Urban Parks in Japan," "100 Best Urban Landscapes," and "100 Best Historical Parks in Japan." Within the park is the Sapporo TV Tower, a landmark of Sapporo, situated in the heart of the city.

A vast special park

Odori Park was created in 1869 when the Hokkaido Development Commission was established, and the idea of creating a grid-like layout was conceived. Since around 1875, it has been used as a space for events and walks, evolving over time. It continues to be maintained as a place of relaxation for nearby residents and is still loved by many today.

The park features beautiful flower beds and lawns, with approximately 4,700 trees of about 90 species planted. In addition to seasonal plants, snow falls during winter, creating a magical effect.

The park is divided into five zones

West 1 and 2 blocks, adjacent to the Sapporo TV Tower, are the international exchange zone named 'Exchange.' It is a space of international goodwill, featuring the "Benson's Drinking Fountain" gifted by sister city Portland.

West 3, 4, and 5 blocks are the water and light zone 'Oasis,' offering a peaceful space with fountains, the "Ishikawa Takuboku Monument," and the "Yoshi I Isamu Monument."

West 6, 7, 8, and 9 blocks, known as 'Gathering,' are a play and event zone with an outdoor stage, play slopes, and playground equipment. West 10 and 11 blocks form the history and culture zone 'Frontier,' featuring statues of people involved in Hokkaido's development and the "Maypole," a symbol of a German festival gifted by sister city Munich. West 12 block, 'Flower,' is a sunken space with a central canal, boasting a rose garden with about 60 varieties of roses and the Sapporo Reference Library.

Events unique to the snow country

Sapporo White Illumination

Illumination in Odori Park / Photo AC

Started in 1981, this historic event has become a winter tradition in Sapporo. Initially beginning with about 1,000 light bulbs, it has gradually upgraded in scale and content. Each area of the park is fantastically illuminated.

At the Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo, held in Odori West 2 block, booths selling wine, Christmas dishes, and Christmas items are set up. It has now become one of Japan's leading illumination events.

Sapporo Snow Festival

Snow Japaniche Castle in Sapporo Yuki Matsuri (Snow Festival) / PIXTA

Started in 1950 when local junior and senior high school students displayed snow sculptures in Odori Park, it has grown into an event attracting 20 million tourists annually.

The sight of over 100 large and small sculptures made of snow and ice is breathtaking. From characters from popular anime and celebrities to artistic motifs, a variety of snow sculptures entertain visitors.

Events held in Odori Park

Late May / Sapporo Lilac Festival

Held during the blooming period of the lilac, the tree of Sapporo.

Early June / Yosakoi Soran Festival

A festival combining the "Yosakoi Festival" naruko from Kochi Prefecture and "Soran Bushi" from Hokkaido, held throughout the city centered on Odori Park.

Late June to early July / Flower Festa

Exhibitions of gardening works and flower objects are held. Flowers are also sold by gardening schools.

Mid-July to mid-August / Sapporo Summer Festival

The attitude of enjoying the short summer to the fullest is universal. A large-scale beer garden is held using six blocks of the park, and Bon Odori is also performed.

Late August / Hokkaido Marathon

One of the largest marathon events in Japan, it has recently become a qualifying race for the World Athletics Championships and the Olympics.

Early September to late September / Sapporo Autumn Fest

Focusing on "Food of Hokkaido and Sapporo," seasonal ingredients and local gourmet foods from all over the region gather.

Late November to late December / Sapporo White Illumination, Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo

Started in 1981 as Japan's first illumination, it is a winter tradition that colors early winter in Sapporo. The "Munich Christmas Market" has been held since 2002 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the sister city partnership with Munich, Germany.

Early February to mid-February / Sapporo Snow Festival

A winter tradition in Sapporo that began in Odori Park in 1950. It is also held at the Susukino and Tsudome venues.